#1 Amazon Best Seller

"If you are tempted by the awakening of your own long-dormant wanderlust, Going Gypsy can serve as a primer. . . . The questions [Veronica] poses about 'what next' are relatable ones for all empty nesters." —PBS's Next Avenue

Vinny Vanucchi’s in Galena, Illinois

Main Street in Galena, Illinois has been named a National Register Historic District and it’s easy to see why. Even though most of the buildings serve as shops and restaurants now, they have been wonderfully preserved.

One of those restaurants is Vinny Vanucchi’s Little Italy and, after strolling around the lovely town, some Italian food was sounding pretty darn good to us.

The historic building has been transformed into four distinctive dining areas, including an outdoor cappuccino garden.

Testing our theory that the way to judge an Italian restaurant is by their meatballs, Vinny passed with flying colors.

We also tried the Pasta Ala Vinny, linguini with shrimp, lobster and crab in a spicy olive oil and garlic sauce, that was a seafood lover’s dream.

Topped off with a Chocolate Vanucchi, a moist, deep chocolate layered cake with white chocolate mousse and a cappuccino, we fully approved of the moniker “Little Italy.”